Champions League Final Predictions, Saturday 26th May

Real Madrid v Liverpool (19:45 GMT)

After an exciting season with many surprises, it all ends here with the UEFA Champions League Final tonight. Real Madrid take on Liverpool in what is one of the most anticipated games of the year, with millions of people watching worldwide. Both teams have earned the right to be there, but all eyes will be on Real Madrid as they aim to be the first team in 42 years to win the tournament a third time in a row.

Real Madrid have endured a tough campaign so far, finishing third in La Liga behind their Madrid rivals Atletico, and competition winners Barcelona. They finished 17 points behind the winners and better things will be expected next time around. Despite this, however, they are still considered favourites here, and it will be dubbed a successful season if they claim victory tonight. The Spanish side have won the competition more than any other team, winning it 12 times in their history. The side also host a number of superstar players, including competition all time competition top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo who has managed 120 goals in his Champions League Career so far.

Liverpool, on the other hand, will be pleased with their season so far having beaten rivals Chelsea to 4th place in the Premier League this season. They have surpassed expectations so far to reach the final, particularly in beating fellow English side Manchester City in the quarter-finals. The Reds have not been as successful as their opponents in the Champions League over the years. Their only win came 13 years ago in 2005. However, under current manager Jurgen Klopp, they look like a side that is capable of beating anyone on their day.

Both sides are renowned for their attacking exploits and getting wins by outscoring their opponents. Mohamed Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo are the prime examples of this, leading their sides each week with both having scored 43 goals this season for their respective sides. A high scoring game might be expected then, however, Liverpool are leading the competition defensively this season with a total of 6 clean sheets their so far. If they can shut out their opponents the way they have done previously this season then they will have one hand on the trophy.

We expect a tightly contested affair with no winner after 90 minutes, leading to extra time. From there anything could happen and it will likely come down to a moment of individual brilliance. We believe Liverpool will eventually come out on top, with Mohamed Salah being the one to get them there.